Asked if his hirsute appearance was down to superstition, the former Italy boss at first denied that was the cause, but said he hoped to end the season with a mighty beard if he did opt to keep it for as long as Chelsea were winning.

"No, but this is the first time. We can see tomorrow if this beard brings luck or not," he added.

"But I repeat, this is the first time I've tried to change my look, but only because my wife decided.